"Help, Muder," and the Police Helped

Danville Commercial News
March 27, 1916

"Help, Murder," And The Police Helped

"Help! Help! My God, they're killing me! Murder! Thieves! Help! Help!"
These cries aroused Patrolman Frank Simpson shortly after 9 o'clock Monday night. The cries came from the vicinity of the Phillips Laundry Barn, Robinson street. Neighbors were aroused. A call was sent police headquarters.
Patrolman Simpson, just retiring, dressed hurriedly, grabbed his pistol and started out. Just as he reached the laundry barn, the police auto, with a load of officers, drove up and stopped. The cries were repeated. The officers made a hasty inspection of firearms. They advanced hurriedly, but cautiously.
Inside the barn they found William Morgan. Bill was drunk. In his right hand he help a wisp of hay. He was still crying out for help and warding off imaginary enemies with the handful of hay. He was taken to police headquarters and locked up for observation.